Dame Esther Rantzen's daughter Rebecca Wilcox has returned to social media with her first post since confirming her mother's death, sharing an unseen photo and paying tribute to her 'irreplaceable' mother.
The broadcaster and charity crusader, 86, died peacefully at home in rural Hampshire on Wednesday, three years after confirming her cancer had escalated to stage IV.
Daughter's tribute and appeal
Rebecca Wilcox, the eldest of Rantzen's three children with late husband Desmond, urged social media followers to support her mother's legacy by donating to her favoured charities, among them Childline and Dignity in Dying.
“Mum was our irreplaceable everything. Thank you for all the messages. Please know we’re reading them all, but I can’t always reply. Thank you for the beautiful tributes.
“If you wanted to remember her, I know her charities would appreciate any donation you felt like giving… I’m taking a break from things, but will see you all again soon.”
Colleagues and friends pay tribute
Showbiz friends and colleagues have since shared their fondest memories of the broadcaster, who fought for the right to assisted dying prior to her death on Wednesday, across social media.
Crediting the presenter's notable charity work in a new Instagram post, Spice Girl Geri Halliwell called her an 'inspiration.'
Referencing her considerable work with helpline services Childline and Silverline, Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid shared: “DAME ESTHER RANTZEN. The greatest. I was in awe of you.
“Through her work and her energy and her determination – Esther made the world a better place. Literally.
“A pioneering journalist and the original consumer champion. The founder of Childline and The Silver Line. A relentless campaigner for safer playgrounds, child seatbelts, organ donation and assisted dying.
“Sending love to her family and everyone who knew and loved her”.
TV presenter Davina McCall added: “Just quickly wanted to say to Esther Rantzen’s family and friends, rest in peace Esther. What a woman!
